5th arrondissement of Paris, the Latin Quarter, everything to see
The 5th arrondissement of Paris is located on the left bank of the Seine, facing the Notre-Dame Cathedral on the opposite bank. It is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Paris.
A cosmopolitan mix of nationalities, it has long been home to students, intellectuals, and local families who have lived there for generations. The Latin Quarter, known worldwide for its history and cultural influence, is largely located here.
Also read: The Latin Quarter, student and artistic identity
Between history and culture, gastronomic delights and nightlife… discover the many facets of this arrondissement. The 5th arrondissement is a perfect blend of history, culture, and Parisian charm, making it a must-visit for any traveler in Paris.
For an overview of all 20 arrondissements of Paris, click on Which is the best arrondissement to stay in Paris?
Map of the 5th arrondissement of Paris – Points of Interest
To make the most of what the map has to offer:
clicking on the place markers will open a window with a photo and a "View the place" link (File).
clicking on the "Hotels" markers and then on the hotel link allows you to book online.
in the window at the top right, if you click on a line (for example, "Near..."), you will remove the markers related to that line. If you want to display only hotels on the map, click once on each of the other lines. Clicking a second time on each line will reposition the markers on the map.
A neighborhood of knowledge
The Jardin des Plantes
To the east of the 5th arrondissement and not far from the banks of the Seine, the magnificent Jardin des Plantes is well worth a visit lasting several hours. This 24-hectare French-style garden features remarkable trees, botanical curiosities, and lush greenhouses!
The National Museum of Natural History (MNHN)
The Jardin des Plantes is home to the main site of the National Museum of Natural History (MNHN), which comprises 14 locations across France and 4 in Paris (including the Musée de l’Homme at the Palais de Chaillot in Trocadéro and the Paris Zoo in Vincennes, as well as the Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes).
It is a French institution dedicated to education, research, and the dissemination of naturalist scientific culture (life sciences, Earth sciences, anthropology, and related disciplines), and is part of the Sorbonne Université alliance.
The Museum’s site at the Jardin des Plantes is itself divided into vast galleries, which are standalone museum buildings. In total, it employs around 2,350 people, including six hundred researchers.
The most interesting galleries to visit at the Jardin des Plantes are:
the Grande Galerie de l’Évolution (Grande Galerie de l’Évolution), which houses 7,000 specimens and animal skeletons.
the Galerie de Paléontologie et d’Anatomie comparée (Galerie de Paléontologie et d’Anatomie comparée). Book your tickets here
the Mineralogy and Geology Gallery (Mineralogy and Geology Gallery) (the permanent exhibition “Treasures of the Earth” covers the entire mineral world). Book here. In this gallery, you can notably admire some of the jewels of the French Crown. The others are displayed at the Paris Mines School and, above all, at the Louvre Museum. Book your Louvre Museum tickets.
the Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes (Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes), nestled in lush greenery and home to 600 animals, including some endangered species. Book for the Ménagerie
Quartier Latin – the intellectual heart of Paris
The Quartier Latin, renowned worldwide for its history and cultural influence, stretches largely across the 5th arrondissement. Alongside the Île de la Cité, it is Paris’s oldest district, with remnants from the Gallo-Roman era, the legendary Sorbonne (where Cardinal Richelieu is buried), the Collège de France, and the prestigious lycées Louis-le-Grand and Henri-IV. It is undeniably the intellectual heart of Paris, where every street breathes history. Its name dates back to the Middle Ages, when professors taught students exclusively in Latin. It is also here that you’ll find iconic addresses.
The Sorbonne : Why visit?
One of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious universities, founded in the 13th century.
The surrounding district is steeped in intellectual and academic history, with lively bookshops and cafés.
While the interior is generally not open to the public, its architecture is worth admiring.
The Panthéon : Why visit?
A magnificent neoclassical mausoleum paying tribute to great French minds such as Voltaire, Rousseau, Victor Hugo, and Marie Curie.
The crypt is fascinating, and the dome offers breathtaking panoramic views of Paris.
The Collège de France: Why visit?
A renowned institution offering free public lectures on a wide range of topics.
Its historic buildings and academic heritage are well worth seeing.
A neighborhood steeped in history: Paris and its origins
The 5th arrondissement is one of Paris’s historic cradles. Many traces of its past still remain today. Among the most remarkable are the Arènes de Lutèce, a Gallo-Roman amphitheatre built in the 1st century and the city’s oldest surviving ruins, as well as the ancient thermal baths adjacent to the Musée du Moyen Âge. This museum is housed in the magnificent Hôtel de Cluny, dating back to the 13th century. Finally, the monumental Panthéon, located on the Montagne Sainte-Geneviève, the tomb of the nation’s great figures.
5th arrondissement of Paris: a cultural district
Between its antique bookshops showcasing world literature, its art galleries blending contemporary and classical art, the Institut du Monde Arabe with its thematic exhibitions, and its prestigious art-house cinemas, the 5th arrondissement is a cultural hotspot.
The cinema
Film buffs can head to Studio des Ursulines, Le Champo, Reflet Médicis, or the Filmothèque du Quartier Latin.
Literature
Specialized bookshops and publishers like Eyrolles, J.Vrin, Pippa, the Librairie des PUF (Presses Universitaires de France), Album and Pulp’s Comics for comics, Présence Africaine, Librairie Sud Est Asie, or even Abbey Bookshop for Anglo-American authors… will be happy to guide you.
And for lovers of English-language literature, don’t miss the incomparable charm of the famous Shakespeare and Company bookstore! Known for its cozy, labyrinthine interior, as well as its ties to renowned writers like Ernest Hemingway and James Joyce. Why visit? A legendary English-language bookstore steeped in exceptional literary history.
Museums in the 5th arrondissement of Paris
Musée du Moyen Âge de Cluny (Musée national du Moyen Âge) – including the stunning Hôtel de Cluny, the medieval mansion housing the museum: Why visit?
A museum set in a medieval mansion built atop Roman baths.
Famous for its The Lady and the Unicorn tapestries.
A fascinating journey through medieval art and history.
Grande Galerie de l’Évolution
Gallery of Paleontology and Comparative Anatomy
Arab World Institute (Arab World Institute)
Monuments of the 5th arrondissement of Paris
Paris Grand Mosque (Paris Grand Mosque) and place of worship: Why visit?
A beautiful Andalusian-style mosque with peaceful gardens.
Features a hammam, a restaurant, and a tea salon—a true oasis in the heart of the city.
Offers a tea salon where you can enjoy mint tea and Oriental pastries.
Arènes de Lutèce : Why visit?
A remnant of Roman Paris, this ancient theatre dates back to the 1st century. A peaceful spot to relax and imagine the city in Roman times.
Churches in the 5th arrondissement of Paris
Église Saint-Étienne-du-Mont : Why visit?
A magnificent Gothic and Renaissance-style church located near the Panthéon.
Houses the tomb of Blaise Pascal and relics of Saint Genevieve, patron saint of Paris.
Famous for its intricate architecture and serene atmosphere.
Église Saint-Séverin : Why visit?
A Flamboyant Gothic church with stunning stained glass and a tranquil ambiance.
Located near bustling streets, offering a peaceful retreat in this lively neighborhood.
The Val-de-Grâce church and convent (architect: François Mansart) were built in the mid-17th century by Queen Anne of Austria to celebrate the birth of Louis XIV. Since the Revolution, the convent has housed a military hospital. Inside the church: numerous sculptures and paintings by Philippe de Champaigne. The Musée du Service de santé des armées is located in the magnificent cloister of the Val-de-Grâce monumental complex. It showcases the history of the army health service through illustrations of its main missions, including medical evacuation.
A gastronomic neighborhood in the 5th arrondissement of Paris
The 5th arrondissement is a gastronomic paradise that blends Parisian tradition with modern and multicultural influences. Whether you're savoring a refined meal or enjoying a quick crêpe on the go, you’re sure to experience the best culinary delights Paris has to offer! Bon appétit!
From Rue Mouffetard to the Latin Quarter, the 5th arrondissement is packed with mouthwatering addresses.
Restaurants, cafés, bistros
La Tour d’Argent. The first name to mention for this 2-Michelin-starred restaurant. One of Paris’s most iconic dining spots, dating back to 1582, offering breathtaking views of the Seine and Notre-Dame. Renowned worldwide for its legendary canard à l’orange and exceptional wine cellar. Timeless elegance and the essence of classic French gastronomy. Address: 19 Quai de la Tournelle.
Les Papilles. A quirky French bistro offering a fixed-price menu that changes daily, paired with exceptional wines from their cellar. It’s also a gourmet deli and wine shop. Intimate and unpretentious. Address: 30 Rue Gay-Lussac.
Le Petit Prince de Paris. A charming, romantic bistro serving classic French dishes like duck confit and foie gras. Atmosphere: Cozy and intimate, with vintage décor. Address: 12 Rue de Lanneau.
Le Pré Verre. Offers modern reinterpretations of traditional French cuisine, with inventive use of spices. Atmosphere: Trendy yet welcoming. Address: 8 Rue Thénard.
Café de la Nouvelle Mairie. A classic Parisian café highlighting natural wines and simple yet delicious food. Atmosphere: Friendly and relaxed. Address: 19 Rue des Fossés Saint-Jacques.
You’ll also find author tables like Hugo & Co or Baïeta, as well as world gastronomy restaurants such as ATICA and its Basque cuisine, Kitchen Galerie Bis (KGB) or Lhassa.
Vegetarian and vegan options
The Grenier de Notre-Dame. One of Paris’s first vegetarian restaurants, offering hearty and wholesome dishes. Address: 18 Rue de la Bûcherie.
Bakeries and pastry shops, ice cream and crêpes
Many pastry chefs display their specialties and other sweet treats here. From Georges Larnicol’s kouign amann and the choux pastries from Maison Odette to Alberto’s artisanal ice cream or the cinnamon rolls from Flying Circus, gourmands will be spoiled for choice.
Maison Gaumer. A pastry boutique offering delicate pastries and sweets, perfect for a sweet break.
Boulangerie Utopie. Renowned for its creative breads and pastries. To try: Their famous activated charcoal baguette.
Odette. A charming shop specializing in choux pastries, filled with various creams. Atmosphere: Ideal for a sweet pause. Address: 77 Rue Galande.
Berthillon (near Île Saint-Louis) – A world-renowned institution. Though located in the 4th arrondissement, it’s just a stone’s throw from the 5th. Famous for its legendary artisanal ice creams. Must-try flavors: Salted caramel, pear, and pistachio. Address: 29-31 rue Saint-Louis en l’Île Paris 75004.
La Crêperie du Cloître. Outstanding sweet and savory crêpes in a charming, intimate setting. Address: 5 Rue de la Montagne Sainte-Geneviève.
Wines and cheeses
Bar à Fromage Androuet. A cozy spot to sample French artisanal cheeses paired with wine. Ambiance: Relaxed yet sophisticated. Address: 134 Rue Mouffetard, 75005 Paris
Le Petit Cluny Wine Bar. A convivial yet refined bar offering an excellent selection of French wines and plates of charcuterie and cheese. Address: 4 Rue de l’Hirondelle.
Food markets in the 5th arrondissement of Paris
Monge Market. A lively open-air market offering fresh produce, cheeses, meats, fish, and flowers. Address: Place Monge, 75005.
Rue Mouffetard Market. One of Paris’s oldest streets, bustling with shops selling artisanal cheeses, fresh bread, and treats. Address: Rue Mouffetard.
Picnics along the Seine
The river views, especially near Île Saint-Louis, provide a quintessentially Parisian experience. Pick up cheese, bread, and wine on Rue Mouffetard or at Monge Market, and enjoy a picnic on the Seine riverbanks.
5th arrondissement of Paris – A neighborhood for going out
Jazz clubs, theaters, bars, and cafés… Rue Mouffetard, Saint-Michel, and the Latin Quarter are famous for their vibrant nightlife, often stretching into the early hours of the morning.
Rue de la Huchette
Narrow and cobbled, the famous Rue de la Huchette is home to many lively bars on its own, including the Théâtre de la Huchette—where *The Bald Soprano* has been performed without interruption since 1957. Also on this street, the Caveau de la Huchette and one of the capital’s most avant-garde jazz clubs.
This bustling thoroughfare overflows with bars, pubs, and restaurants that stay open late. Though slightly touristy, it’s perfect for back-to-back drinks and people-watching. Among the favored spots: Le Saint Severin, a laid-back bar with a terrace and affordable prices, and The Galway Irish Pub, a relaxed Irish pub offering live music and sports screenings.
Rue Mouffetard
A little further on, from Place de la Contrescarpe, the legendary Rue Mouffetard and its bars, pubs, and typical restaurants exude a warm atmosphere, like the Caveau des Oubliettes. You’ll also find The Bombardier, an English-style pub serving craft beers in a convivial setting, as well as La Contrescarpe, located on Place de la Contrescarpe. A multitude of relaxed terraces and pubs line the street, making this a must-visit for Parisian nightlife.
Rue du Cardinal Lemoine
This is where you’ll find Paris’s oldest and most famous cabaret, the Paradis Latin.
Other spots
The Piano Vache: A legendary bar beloved by students and locals alike, known for its eclectic decor, live music programming, and retro vibe. A must-visit meeting spot near the Sorbonne.
Shywawa Bar: A colorful, offbeat bar inspired by the tiki universe, perfect for cocktails, a relaxed atmosphere, and a friendly crowd. A hidden gem tucked away on rue de la Montagne Sainte-Geneviève.
Delirium Café: Renowned for its vast selection of craft beers from around the world, set in a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere—ideal for beer lovers. Located on rue des Boulangers, it’s a favorite with both locals and visitors.
Au Port du Salut: An intimate cabaret-style venue offering live concerts and a warm atmosphere, blending jazz, French chanson, and modern performances. Perfect for an evening in a small group.
La Lucha Libre: A Mexican-themed bar with a unique twist—it features a wrestling ring where lucha libre matches are held! Festive cocktails, electric atmosphere, and a truly original experience for an unforgettable night.
Wine bars of the Latin Quarter: The 5th arrondissement is home to excellent wine bars for a more refined evening. Among the must-visits: Le Baron Rouge, a classic for wine lovers, often offering natural and organic wines, and Les Pipos, a cozy wine bar with a fine selection of French wines and a traditional vibe.
Student hangout spots: Thanks to its proximity to the Sorbonne and other universities, the 5th is packed with affordable bars beloved by students. The Teddy’s Bar, known for its budget-friendly drinks and cozy atmosphere, or La Gueuze, famous for its wide variety of beers and laid-back vibe.
For a calmer atmosphere
Place Monge and its surroundings: a neighborhood that’s both peaceful and lively, with bars and terraces frequented by locals. A mix of trendy spots and traditional bistros.
Strolls and Seine cruises: the riverbanks offer lovely spots for a walk or a drink in the evening. Opt for a nighttime Seine cruise, departing near the 5th arrondissement, to admire the city lights in a romantic setting.
The 5th arrondissement of Paris: a neighborhood to explore on foot
Rue Mouffetard: Why go?
One of Paris’s oldest streets, renowned for its lively atmosphere.
Lined with traditional shops, cafés, bakeries, and a daily market.
Perfect for food lovers and those seeking authentic Parisian charm.
Place de la Contrescarpe: Why go?
A bustling square surrounded by restaurants and cafés, embodying the quintessential Parisian spirit.
Close to Rue Mouffetard, ideal for unwinding after a stroll.
Quai de la Tournelle and Île Saint-Louis: Why go?
The Seine banks in this area offer breathtaking views of Notre-Dame Cathedral and Île de la Cité.
The perfect spot for a romantic walk or enjoying a crêpe from a nearby stand.
Enjoy a picnic by the water. Buy cheese, bread and wine on Rue Mouffetard or at the Marché Monge before settling in.
Notre-Dame de Paris viewed from the Quai de la Tournelle
Pont de la Tournelle
Built in 1928 on the remains of old wooden bridges that collapsed and a stone bridge weakened by the great flood of 1910, the Pont de la Tournelle takes its name from an old tower of the Philippe Auguste wall that once stood on this left-bank quay.
Les quais de Seine : Why visit?
The 5th arrondissement is bordered by the Seine, offering picturesque riverside walks.
Don’t miss: the bouquinistes (open-air bookstalls) selling antique books and prints.
Parks and gardens of the 5th arrondissement
Jardin Tino Rossi
Jardin des Plantes : Why visit?
A beautiful botanical garden perfect for a peaceful stroll.
It houses the Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle, the greenhouses and a menagerie (one of the world’s oldest zoos).
Ideal for families and nature lovers.
Jardin de Cluny
Arènes de Lutèce: Why visit?
A testament to ancient Paris, this Roman amphitheater dates back to the 1st century AD.
A peaceful spot to relax and imagine the city in Roman times.
Tips for visiting the 5th arrondissement of Paris
Best times to visit: Early morning for a calmer atmosphere, or in the evening when the Latin Quarter comes alive with vibrant energy.
Comfortable shoes: Many streets are cobbled, and you’ll likely do a lot of walking.
Discover hidden gems: Venture off the main paths to find picturesque alleys and lesser-known cafés.
To see in the 5th arrondissement and nearby – Entry ticket reservations
Musée de Cluny - Booking entry Musée de Cluny (Not available)
Restaurant La Tour d’Argent
La Grande Galerie de l’Évolution – Reservation “La Grande Galerie de l’Évolution” at the Jardin des Plantes
Gallery of Mineralogy and Geology - Book Great Gallery of Evolution + Geology and Mineralogy Gallery
Ménagerie of the Jardin des Plantes - Book Great Gallery of Evolution + Zoo of the Jardin des Plantes
Promenade Île de la Cité - Discover the origins of Paris on this self-guided and documented walk
Sainte-Chapelle - Sainte-Chapelle - Sainte-Chapelle ticket reservation
Conciergerie - Book Conciergerie tickets (Sainte-Chapelle combined)
Notre-Dame de Paris - Book Notre-Dame de Paris tickets (Free entry but booking recommended to avoid queues)
Archaeological Crypt of the Île de la Cité - Book Archaeological Crypt of the Île de la Cité
Palace of the Luxembourg - Book tickets for the Palace of the Luxembourg
Mining School Museum
And for a relaxing moment on the Seine with nearby boarding
-
Batobus Shuttle - River taxi - Stops at Louvre, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Notre-Dame - Musée d'Orsay - Batobus River Taxi Booking (9 stops) (Hop-on Hop-off - 1 or 2-day pass - Easy way to travel from one museum to another)
Pont Neuf Vedettes Cruises - Square du Vert-Galant - Pont Neuf Vedettes Cruise Booking – Departure from Square Vert-Galant
Bonus: 5 essential tips to help you plan and enjoy your stay in Paris
Have you noticed that our website provides you with tools to help you easily organize your trip to Paris so that your stay is a stress-free success?
1. Phrasebook Translator for those who don’t speak French fluently
Do you struggle to find the right word or phrase in French? Click here on PHRASEBOOK – or at the top right of your screen. It’s a glossary of 100 useful words and/or phrases for a tourist visiting Paris. You’ll feel at ease at restaurants, hotels, shopping, the metro, greetings, asking for directions, and more. Eight languages are available. And guess what? You can also listen to each word and phrase in French.
2. VPBY’s Stay Generator
There are many interesting and educational things to see in Paris. We strongly recommend organizing your stay well. To help you, we offer you Trip Generator FREE OF CHARGE.
In just 5 minutes and 5 clicks, you’ll get your half-day itinerary. Plus, all reservations—if you wish, with no obligation—for the sites you want to visit. You can also book your transport (plane, train, or car) and your accommodation. Even suggestions for valuable gift souvenirs for you, your friends, and your family.
How does it work?
Click on "Paris Trip Organizer"—completely free—which will save you the hassle of trying to see as much as possible in the least amount of time. Then, you’ll need to make your choices:
1/ Select your "general interests" by clicking on the list (Museums, Churches, Monuments, Parks, etc.);
2/ The VPBY Trip Generator will then provide you with all relevant listings;
3/ You select by clicking on the names of the museums, monuments, parks, or activities you want;
4/ The organizer will send you a day-by-day itinerary for your stay;
5/ with geographically optimized daily visits—if you wish—to avoid tiring, time-consuming travel.
It takes just 5 clicks and 3 minutes. And it’s completely free. To use it, click on "Paris Trip Organizer".
Note: Want to know what users of the VPBY Trip Generator think of their experience? Click on "They planned their trip with VPBY".
3. List of Reservations to Make
To avoid wasting time waiting in line, we recommend making your reservations online a few days in advance. All official reservations are available and can be found on our website:
Reservations to enter museums, monuments, shows, and Seine River cruises
Reservations for your arrival in France: planes, trains, and cars
Reservations for your accommodation: hotels, apartments, and guesthouses – in Paris or nearby
You’ll find links to all these reservations directly in the articles of the attractions you’re interested in or in the self-guided itineraries of our walks. By clicking on "Reservations" in the header bar, you’ll have access to all the reservations you’ll need during your stay. For example:
4. Collecting Souvenir Photos from Paris Collections
These are high-definition vintage photos available digitally or as long-lasting prints (75 to 100 years). Their size ranges between postcard and large format (up to 1 m or more). A lifelong keepsake to decorate your home. Quality memorabilia (unlike a snow globe or a plastic Eiffel Tower). At a very affordable price. Click on:
5. Return with a personalized photo report of your stay in Paris
Professional photographers capturing Paris at your chosen locations or suggested spots. A "family" report, wedding, or other events. From 1 hour to a full day. The best quality-to-price ratio. Click on:
Photos
